Disused building earmarked for 80 homes

A developer is proposing to turn the disused Queensbury House in Hastings into 80 apartments

Plans have been submitted to convert a disused office building in Hastings into 80 apartments.

Dale Real Estate proposes to convert Queensbury House, a seven-storey building in Havelock Road, into a "co-living" space, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

A spokesperson for the company says the design is "centred around fostering a sense of community and offering a mix of private and communal facilities tailored to modern urban lifestyles".

John Bownas from Loving Hastings said there were "unanswered questions" from the developer, namely who manages the building, rent prices and what happens if not enough suitable tenants are found.

"There is a risk this well-meaning proposal could become just another emergency temporary accommodation option for single vulnerable people, but without the levels of social support which the client group needs," he added.

"We welcome a discussion with the building owners to discuss the needs for affordable living in the town centre so that a realistic long-term plan can be implemented for this potentially landmark building."

Dale Real Estate's architects, Front Architecture, confirmed there would be a management team for the building.

"Rental costs would be comparable to other shared dwellings and this covers all utilities," it added.

The developer said the proposal would see residents rent private rooms with communal areas including kitchen and dining rooms, co-working office space and a rooftop terrace.

"These internal spaces aim to encourage social interaction, supporting a new model of cohabitation that is particularly suited to young professionals, remote workers, and those seeking a more flexible and connected way of living," it added.